Clare's+Letter

Dear Emma,

Hello it’s cousin Elizabeth. I am at the Longstone Lighthouse off the Northeast coast of England. I just took a trip on the SS Forfarshire on the way to a new position; it didn't go well at all. I've now heard that before the ship left the port of Hull the engine boilers were having trouble, but the captain made the decision to set out to sea. Then this is what happened: a great storm arose. Soon after we learned that the ship’s boilers had failed and the engine had stopped and now we were stuck in the middle of the sea! We knew we were in trouble because the storm had severe weather. A violent current drifted us right up against the rocks of the Big Harcar Island. Then the ship started to break apart with only one lifeboat on board! Nine people crammed into the small lifeboat, and as the boat was sinking, I and some other people managed to grab on to the rocks. I thought I was going to die up there! Hours later, the Darlings (the Longstone Lighthouse keepers) paddled out to sea in their flat-bottomed lifeboat and brought us back to the lighthouse. That is where I am now recovering from my terrible ordeal. Then the other day I thought “What happens next?” That is when I decided to write to you. I remembered that you had lived on a farm outside Dundee. I was wondering if you could send your carriage, so I can ride to your farm? I hope I can stay with you for a bit until I am fully rested and am ready to find another way to my new job. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, Elizabeth

Dear Cousin Elizabeth,

I am so, so sorry for what happened on the SS Forfrashire. That was a stupid idea that the captain made. The ship must of had to be not well made. Also the storm must of been really bad. Hopefully you and other people didn't get hurt by being on the rocks. Well at least you didn't get hurt. Thank goodness to the Darlings.

Hopefully you will get better. I know you will! The weather must of been really bad because around here the weather usually isn't that bad. I am so glad to know that you are okay! You were probably very hungry for hours, because the Darlings didn't come right away. I've heard that The Darlings are very nice people, and now I know they are, because they saved you!

I am so glad that you decided to write to me. Yes, I do have a farm outside Dundee. Well Actually I am on a little trip and I am coming home tomorrow. I am passing the Longstone Lighthouse. So if you could wait one more day, I can pick you up! You are welcome to come over anytime you'd like! I'll pick you up around 10:00. Can't wait to see you. Thank the Darlings for me!

Sincerely, Emma